Education is a powerful tool for transformation, and one university in Ghana is proving just how impactful it can be. In a remarkable stride forward, the Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (SDD-UBIDS) has welcomed 1,226 postgraduate students for the 2025/2026 academic year through its distance and weekend programs. But here's where it gets even more impressive: this number represents a 58% increase from the previous year, signaling a growing demand for the university's offerings.
Located in Wa, Upper West Region, SDD-UBIDS is not just expanding its reach; it’s redefining accessibility to higher education. Among the new cohort, 801 are males (65%) and 425 are females (35%), reflecting a diverse group of learners eager to advance their careers and knowledge. The university’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Emmanuel Kanchebe Derbile, officially welcomed these students during a matriculation ceremony held at the Bamahu Campus, describing the event as a significant milestone for both the students and the institution.
But here’s where it gets controversial: While many universities struggle to balance quality with accessibility, SDD-UBIDS is boldly addressing this challenge through its Institute for Distance Education and Learning (IDEL), established in 2024. IDEL offers flexible and affordable pathways for professionals and working adults to pursue postgraduate studies without sacrificing their careers or family commitments. Is this the future of higher education, or does it risk diluting academic rigor? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
Professor Derbile emphasized that this growth reflects the university’s resilience and commitment to becoming a leading center of excellence in higher education. He highlighted that SDD-UBIDS is dedicated to providing inclusive, high-quality education that meets national and international standards. The programs are designed to equip students with analytical skills, leadership competencies, and the ability to tackle complex development challenges.
And this is the part most people miss: Postgraduate students at SDD-UBIDS are not just learners; they are seen as vital contributors to intellectual leadership within the university. Professor Derbile encouraged them to actively participate in seminars, engage with faculty, collaborate with peers, and uphold academic integrity. He also acknowledged the unique challenges these students face, balancing studies with professional and family responsibilities, and advised them to cultivate discipline, time management, and resilience.
Despite being a relatively young institution, SDD-UBIDS is steadily rising, committed to excellence, integrity, and innovation. Professor Derbile urged the new students to take ownership of their academic journey, build meaningful networks, and apply their knowledge to national and global development. He concluded by congratulating the matriculants and wishing them a transformative and fulfilling academic experience.
As SDD-UBIDS continues to grow, it raises a thought-provoking question: Can universities truly balance accessibility with academic excellence? Share your opinions below and let’s spark a conversation about the future of higher education.
FROM NAZIRU ALHASSAN, WA
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